Preneeta Sharma
Dharamshala: In a proud moment for Himachal Pradesh and the Central University of Himachal Pradesh (CUHP), noted artist and researcher Dr. Suresh Kumar has been honoured by the Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu, for his significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of the traditional Kangra and Guler schools of Pahari miniature painting.
The prestigious recognition was conferred during a special workshop held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, where Dr. Kumar was acknowledged for his active role in preserving and advancing the rich artistic heritage of the Himalayan region.
Dr. Suresh Kumar recently completed his PhD research at the Department of Visual Arts, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, under the guidance of Dr. Ved Paliwal. His scholarly and artistic work has earned widespread appreciation for bringing renewed attention to the centuries-old Pahari art traditions.
This is not the first national honour for Dr. Kumar. In October 2025, he was also awarded the Prime Minister Viksit Bharat Award by the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his outstanding contribution to Indian art and culture.
Congratulating Dr. Kumar on this remarkable achievement, CUHP Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sat Prakash Bansal, along with Prof. Suman Sharma, Prof. Pradeep Kumar, Registrar Prof. Narendra Sankhyan, and faculty members of the Department of Visual Arts, including Prof. Nirupama Singh and Dr. Ved Paliwal, extended their heartfelt wishes and praised his dedication to preserving India’s artistic legacy.
The recognition is being seen as a significant milestone not only for Dr. Kumar but also for the Central University of Himachal Pradesh and the state’s vibrant cultural heritage.
